Spinal Cord Stimulation

David Wu, MD Our Services Spinal Cord Stimulation

David Wu, MD

Interventional Pain Management Specialist located in South Bay, Torrance, CA

If you desire long-lasting relief from back or neck pain, Dr. David Wu may have the solution you’ve been searching for: spinal cord stimulation. At his interventional pain management practice in Torrance, California, Dr. Wu offers spinal cord stimulation if conservative treatments haven’t worked to ease your discomfort. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book one online today. 

Spinal cord stimulation Q&A

What is spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation uses an implantable device to send low levels of electricity into your spinal cord to ease pain. You control the electrical impulses using a remote control. The remote and its antenna remain outside of your body.

Spinal cord stimulation offers long-term pain relief, allowing you to live life to its fullest and resume your favorite activities. Dr. Wu is highly trained in implanting and monitoring spinal cord stimulators.

Which conditions can spinal cord stimulation treat?

Dr. Wu may suggest spinal cord stimulation if you struggle with one or more of the following:

  • Neck pain
  • Failed back surgery syndrome
  • Back pain
  • Post-surgical discomfort
  • Heart pain
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Nerve pain
  • Pain after amputation
  • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
  • Peripheral vascular disease (PAD)
  • Abdominal pain
  • Perineal pain

Dr. Wu completes a physical exam and may order blood tests, imaging procedures, or other diagnostic tests before personalizing a treatment plan. He determines if you’re a candidate for spinal cord stimulation after discussing your symptoms, medications, lifestyle, and medical history.

Dr. Wu might suggest you first try rest, ice or heat packs, or physical therapy. He also provides platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for sports injuries and pain, radiofrequency ablation, facet joint injections, and epidural steroid injections. 

What are the benefits of spinal cord stimulation?

Spinal cord stimulation offers the following advantages:

  • Reduced back or neck pain
  • Long-lasting relief
  • Better sleep
  • Improved quality of life

Spinal cord stimulation may reduce the need to take addictive pain medicine or undergo surgery.

What happens during spinal cord stimulator implantation?

Dr. Wu completes two spinal cord stimulation procedures: a trial procedure and spinal cord stimulator implantation. During the trial, he tests a temporary device. If it works, Dr. Wu inserts a permanent device using X-ray guidance for optimal precision and accuracy. 

During the procedure, Dr. Wu inserts electrodes into the epidural space within your spine. He places the stimulator underneath the skin in your lower back and closes the incision. The procedure may last about 1-2 hours.

After treatment, have a friend or family member drive you home. The incision site may be tender and swollen while it heals. Take it easy and follow all of Dr. Wu’s post-care instructions. Use your remote control to emit electrical impulses and ease pain, and call Dr. Wu’s office with any questions you may have.

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. David Wu by phone or book one online today to determine if spinal cord stimulation is right for you.

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